The annual Vanderbilt University's annual Nashville poll has found that trust in Nashville's leaders is waning in 2026, with 56% of respondents saying the city is on the wrong track. This is the first time in the poll's history that a majority of respondents disapprove of the Metro Nashville Council's work, and Mayor Freddie O'Connell's approval rating has also dropped significantly since 2025 compared to that year. The recent historic ice storm, which hit Nashville a month after it hit, likely contributed to a significant drop in optimism and concerns about Nashville's direction and leadership. The largest share of 44% blamed not the mayor or NES but Mother Nature. This year's poll also marked the first times Vanderbilt has asked about Nashville Electric Service (NES), which has seen increased scrutiny since the storm's impact. The survey also showed stronger storm response approval for city departments like Metro Water Services and Nashville's Department of Waste Services at 60%.